LOS ANGELES—Singer Eddie Money, 70, passed away on Friday, September 13. The singer, born Edward Joseph Mahoney on March 21, 1949, in Brooklyn, New York, started out as a police officer in New York City. He later decided to leave the police force and pursue singing in 1968.

Money released his first album, “Eddie Money” in 1977, which included big hits such as, “Two Tickets to Paradise” and “Baby Hold On.” Money was also known for the hit “Take me Home Tonight,” which reached #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 on November 15, 1986.

The singer had been dealing with various health issues, including being diagnosed with Stage 4 esophageal cancer, which he announced to the public in August 2019. He tweeted on May 28, 2019:

“Hey everyone- I will be undergoing a minor, minimally invasive heart valve surgery this week. I appreciate your thoughts and prayers. I look forward to getting back on stage and rockin’ with you all! Sincerely, the Money Man.”

On July 11, his family announced he would be postponing all tour dates and the album release for “Brand New Day,”which was set for release on July 19, due to his recovery.

Eddie Money is survived by his wife and five children.